Arsenal's new sporting director Andrea Berta has reportedly held talks with Nico Williams's agent, as the Gunners look to secure a deal for the Athletic Bilbao attacker during this summer's transfer window.
Berta was officially appointed by Arsenal last weekend, and he is expected to be at the forefront of a busy summer market for the North London club, who are keen to secure a deal for Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi.
Williams' future has also been the subject of much speculation, with the 22-year-old likely to be on the move this summer.
The Euro 2024 winner famously turned down the chance to join Barcelona last year in favour of spending another season with Athletic, who he is attempting to lead to the Europa League final, which will be held at the Basque club's home stadium.
However, there is an expectation that he will be on the move at the end of the campaign, and according to The Guardian, Berta has held talks with his agent Felix Tainta to discuss the possibility of a summer move.
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Arsenal chief 'holds talks' over Williams transfer
The report claims that Arsenal have been scouting Williams for the last two years, while Bayern Munich and Chelsea are also believed to be keen to secure his signature during this summer's transfer window.
The Spain international's release clause in his contract is said to be £48m, making him a bargain in the current market, and there is set to be a scramble for his signature at the end of the campaign.
Williams has once again been a vital player for Athletic this season, scoring nine goals and registering seven assists in 38 appearances, including four goals and two assists in 10 outings in the Europa League.
In total, the forward has turned out for the Lions on 160 occasions, scoring 29 goals and registering 28 assists in the process, while he has a record of five goals and six assists in 26 outings for Spain.
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Will Arsenal win the race for Williams?
Of the Premier League teams keen on Williams, Arsenal are believed to be the favourites, but the Gunners will have intense competition from abroad, with Barcelona also thought to be considering reigniting their interest.
Bayern are also said to be major players when it comes to the forward's future, so it will be far from a straightforward transfer.
Arsenal are believed to be confident that Berta's influence will place them in a strong position, though, with the new sporting director incredibly knowledgeable when it comes to the Spanish market following his lengthy period at Atletico Madrid.
Matt Law
